Tesla Model Y vs Tesla Model 3 Spec Comparison

Now that we have nearly all the information on Elon’s hot new Model Y SUV, let’s compare to its non-identical twin, the Model 3 sedan.

Tesla’s not been koi about the fact that the new Model Y SUV is a lifted and bloated Model 3 sedan. In the following specification comparison, we’ll find out how close and similar both of these vehicles really are to each other.

2020 Tesla Model Y | Photo: Tesla2019 Tesla Model 3 | Photo: Tesla

Price

Only a few weeks ago, Tesla finally made the base Standard Range Model 3 available for order. At $47,600 before incentives, options and other related fees, it now can fit in many Canadian household budgets.

The current base Long Range Model Y starts at $64,000. The key point to note here is that there is no Standard Range Model Y available yet. If we’re to apply Elon’s +10% price increase on the Model Y over the Model 3, this should mean that a Standard Range Model Y will start around $53,000 when it becomes available in two years, or in the spring of 2021.

The gap between both Performance variants is not as great. The Model Y Performance goes for an even $81,000 while the equivalent Model 3 retails for $78,600.

2020 Tesla Model Y | Photo: Tesla2019 Tesla Model 3 | Photo: Tesla

Interior Space

The Model Y’s expanded exterior dimensions increase the cabin’s volume exponentially. The major difference is found in cargo volume. Now, it’s not clear if the Model Y’s rated maximum includes the frunk however at nearly 1,900 litres, it crushes the Model 3’s combined 425 litres.

In fact, so large is the Model Y’s useable cargo area volume that, like the Model X, the “compact” Y will offer a third row of seats as an option.

2020 Tesla Model Y | Photo: Tesla2019 Tesla Model 3 | Photo: Tesla

Performance and Range

The Standard Range RWD Model 3 can cover 354km and reach 100km/h in only 5.9 seconds. The Long Range 3, by comparison, offers 523km of range and completes the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.3 seconds.

The starter Long Range RWD Model Y, because of its size and weight, delivers 483km of range and arrives at 100km/h from not in 5.8 seconds. Knowing that the Model 3 RWD Long Range tips the scale at 3,805 lbs (1,726 kg), we can extrapolate that the Model Y is more than 350 lbs heavier based on the somewhat limited available information.

The bonkers Performance Model 3 mangles with gravity by attaining 100km/h in 3.4 seconds. We were present when a Model 3 managed 3.1 seconds… Supercar fast. Its range is of 499km. The equivalent Model Y is said to reach the ton in 3.7 seconds, but we’ll bet it can do it in under 3.5 seconds. Its range is rated at 451km.

Final Thoughts on the Tesla Model Y and Tesla Model 3

The takeaway from this little comparison is as follows: Want to go really fast with two or three friends? Get a Model 3. Want to go really fast with the spouse, kids, grandma and grandpa? Get a Model Y.

The Tesla Model Y will, without a doubt, be extremely popular and reach a whole new audience of potential buyers for the brand. If Elon can keep production running smoothly and delays to a minimum, the Model Y will be the nightmare we all know it can be for the competition.

Trained as an Automotive Technician, Matt has two decades of automotive journalism under his belt. He’s done TV, radio, print and this thing called the internet. He’s an avid collector of many 4-wheeled things, all of them under 1,400 kg, holds a recently expired racing license and is a father of two. Life is beautiful.

Motor Illustrated is all about cars. We want to inform consumers about the latest automotive news, and hopefully provide them with the info they need when buying a new or pre-owned car. We also tend to be pretty opinionated.